Why is the Book of Revelation important?
Dear COAH,
The Book of Revelation is the last of the 66 books of the Bible. John, one of the disciples of Jesus, had a vision while in exile on the island of Patmos concerning the earthly and cosmic battles leading to the end of the ages. The promise of the New Heaven and the New Earth was a great comfort to the saints suffering under the persecution of the Roman Empire at the time. It also is a promise to us and admonishes us to live godly lives while we await Christ’s return. While Revelation has been a source of comfort for many believers throughout Church history, it has also been the basis for arbitrary interpretations by heretics.
Gil Sun-joo, a leading figure in the Pyung Yang Great Revival (1907), found much comfort in reading the Book of Revelation. He read it ten thousand times and found it a great source of encouragement. He and his two sons were imprisoned under the Japanese rule. The eldest son, Jin-hyung, was involved in the 105 People Inditement (1911) and died from the complications of Japanese torture, while the second son, Jin-kyung, and Pastor Gil were also imprisoned for a year and a half for their participation in the March 1 Independence Movement (1919). While in prison, Pastor Gil repeatedly read the Book of Revelation, coming up with his end-time doctrine. After his release, he traveled the country, proclaiming there was no hope except for Jesus' return. He was called home while preaching the end-time message.
By contrast, the Shincheonji heretics, who caused a stir in Korean society in 2020 by ignoring COVID-19 quarantine rules, are notorious for their exclusive interpretation of the Book of Revelation. Their leader, Lee Man-hee, once challenged, "Are there any Christian pastors in Korea who can interpret the Revelation? None. Not a single one. The Book of Revelation can only be unlocked in Shincheonji." Only he can unlock the secrets of the Book of Revelation because he has supposedly received direct Revelation from heaven. I feel sorry for so many young people in Korea and around the world who listen to this ridiculous misinterpretation.
The book of Revelation can be challenging because it contains many symbols. But it is not impossible. Knowing the Old Testament background and respecting the basic principles of hermeneutics is essential. We should read the book of Revelation often and understand its contents. The end times are indeed near, and the more so, the more we must live with living hope in Jesus Christ. He is coming again shortly! (For those who understand my Korean sermons, I invite you to join a 10-week preaching on the book of Revelation, beginning this Wednesday evening.)
Blessings,
Pastor Minho Song